Last fact-checked: 19 November 2025

Looking for a flatter, firmer abdomen and an easygoing destination for recovery? Phuket pairs experienced surgeons and modern private hospitals with resort-style hotels—often at prices far below many patients’ home countries. This guide explains options (mini vs. full, extended, fleur-de-lis, and lipoabdominoplasty), pricing, safety, logistics, recovery, and FAQs in plain language.

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Phuket, Thailand International Patient Guide

Friendly reminder: This guide is informational and not medical advice. Final decisions should be made with your surgeon after a formal consultation.

Quick links: See tummy tuck options across Thailand · Browse verified clinics in Phuket Province

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes extra belly skin and some fat, then tightens the abdominal wall for a smoother, firmer silhouette. Many patients also have a repair of diastasis recti (separated core muscles) to support the midsection and reduce bulging.

Anesthesia & Time: Usually general anesthesia; 2.5–5 hours depending on technique, lipo volume, and whether muscle repair is needed.

Drains vs. Drainless: Some surgeons use drains to remove fluid; others use progressive-tension sutures for a drainless recovery. Your surgeon will pick the approach that suits your case.

Recovery Snapshot: First 48 hours are the most tender; many return to desk work in 10–14 days; avoid heavy lifting for ~6 weeks; scars mature and fade over 6–12 months.

Phuket is one of Thailand’s most established medical travel hubs. Patients appreciate the combination of experienced surgeons, modern private facilities, English-speaking coordinators, and quiet neighborhoods that are easy to navigate during recovery.

Use these ranges as a planning starter. Your quote depends on technique (mini vs. full vs. extended), whether lipo is added, muscle repair needs, facility level, and surgeon seniority.

What Your Quote Usually Includes

• Surgeon’s fee
• Anesthesia and operating theatre time
• Standard pre-op labs and tests
• Garment(s) and routine medications
• Follow-up visits and dressing changes

Money-Saving Tips

• Travel in shoulder/low season (May–Oct) for better hotel rates and potential clinic promotions
• Only combine procedures when your surgeon confirms it’s safe in a single stage
• Send a full health history and clear photos for accurate e-quotes
• Book flexible airfare after your surgery date is confirmed

Ready to compare inclusions? Compare Thailand tummy tuck packages.

Booking through Medical Departures adds peace of mind. Verified clinics and surgeons undergo checks designed to help you make a confident choice.

• Professional licenses and active registration
• Facility standards and infection-control policies
• Malpractice coverage where applicable
• Patient feedback and case evidence (when available)
• Surgeon training, memberships, and procedure volume

Your Shortlist Checklist

• How many tummy tucks does the surgeon perform each month?
• Which technique (mini/full/extended/fleur-de-lis) fits your anatomy and goals—and why?
• Will diastasis repair be performed? How is it reinforced?
• Drains or drainless approach—what do they recommend and why?
• What liposuction areas are included, and how do they shape the overall silhouette?
• What’s included in the quote (garments, after-hours contact, revision policy)?

Browse Phuket tummy tuck clinics and request quotes.

Get a Personalized Quote

• Upload photos for a tailored plan
• See package inclusions up front
• Free date checks and surgeon suggestions

Start with verified clinics in Phuket Province

Airport: Phuket International Airport (HKT). Many clinics offer optional pickup.

Typical Flight Times

• Sydney → Phuket: ~9–9.5 hours (nonstop/1-stop)
• Melbourne → Phuket: ~9.5–10.5 hours (1-stop typical)
• Singapore → Phuket: ~1.8 hours nonstop
• Kuala Lumpur → Phuket: ~1.5–2 hours nonstop
• Dubai → Phuket: ~6.5–7 hours nonstop (seasonal)
• London → Phuket: ~12.5–14.5 hours (1-stop typical)
• Los Angeles → Phuket: ~18–20 hours (2 stops typical)

Ground Transport

• Metered taxis and airport limousine counters at HKT
• Clinic shuttles (often included in packages)
• Grab rideshare in most tourist areas
• Hotel cars/minibuses for comfortable post-op trips

Where to Stay

• Phuket Town / Old Town: Quieter streets, cafés, quick clinic access
• Patong: Tourist hub—choose a quiet, higher-rated hotel for recovery
• Kata / Karon: Beach areas with mid-range, recovery-friendly resorts
• Laguna / Bang Tao: Upscale, calm, ideal for longer stays

Visa & Entry

Many nationalities receive a visa exemption or Visa on Arrival. Rules change—check official guidance before booking.

Authoritative guidance: CDC travel health for Thailand and the UK government’s travel advice.

Local Tips

• Carry a passport copy and clinic contact card
• Use licensed transport; confirm meter/fare
• Drink sealed bottled water in the first recovery week
• Avoid pools and the sea until your surgeon clears you

What a Tummy Tuck Can and Can’t Do

• Can flatten and firm the abdomen and improve the waistline
• Can repair diastasis recti for better core support
• Cannot replace weight-loss or prevent future weight change effects

Possible Risks

• Bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing
• Seroma (fluid) or hematoma
• Sensation changes near the incision
• Poor scarring or keloids if predisposed
• Fat necrosis or contour irregularities (especially with lipo)
• Blood clots (DVT/PE) — your team will provide prevention steps
• Potential need for revision

Smart Safety Steps

• Stop nicotine before/after surgery as instructed
• Share a complete medication/supplement list
• Follow garment and activity limits closely

General patient safety resources: World Health Organization. Regulatory oversight: Thai Ministry of Public Health.

Common Payment Methods

• Major credit/debit cards
• Bank transfer (often used for deposits)
• Cash in Thai Baht (THB)
• Occasionally third-party financing—ask your coordinator

Warranties & Revisions

• Ask if your quote includes a limited, time-bound revision policy for medical issues
• Clarify exclusions (e.g., major weight changes, future pregnancies, non-compliance)
• Confirm who pays for flights/hotels if a revision is required and how aftercare works

Medical Departures can help confirm coverage details, document your terms, and support communication after you return home.

How long should I stay in Phuket after a tummy tuck?

Short answer: Plan 12–16 days; add time for extended techniques or combined procedures.

Expanded: The extra days allow for dressing changes, drain removal (if used), and flight clearance. Larger liposuction volumes or complex tightening may need a bit more time.

What warranties or guarantees are typical for tummy tuck surgery?

Short answer: Policies vary; many clinics offer limited, time-bound revision terms.

Expanded: Ask which medical issues are covered, how long coverage lasts, and what exclusions apply (e.g., major weight changes). Confirm who covers travel/hotels if you need to return.

What ground transport options will I have in Phuket?

Short answer: Grab, metered taxis, clinic shuttles, and hotel cars.

Expanded: After surgery, a hotel or clinic car is often most comfortable thanks to smoother driving and door-to-door service. Grab works across tourist zones for cashless rides.

What payment methods are accepted by Phuket clinics?

Short answer: Major cards, bank transfer, and cash in THB.

Expanded: Confirm accepted card brands and any surcharges. Deposits are commonly paid by bank transfer; balances can be paid by card or cash. Notify your bank to avoid declines.

Can a tummy tuck repair diastasis recti?

Short answer: Often yes; many surgeons repair it during surgery.

Expanded: If you have separated core muscles after pregnancy or weight changes, repairing them can improve core support and reduce bulging. Your surgeon will assess your anatomy during the consult.

When can I fly after a tummy tuck?

Short answer: Often after your final local check—commonly 12–16 days.

Expanded: Flight clearance depends on healing and comfort with prolonged sitting/walking. Wear your garment, hydrate, and walk the aisles on long-haul flights.

Will I have visible scars?

Short answer: Yes, but placed low so swimwear can conceal them when possible.

Expanded: Scar length depends on technique. Scar care and sun protection help them fade. Ask your surgeon about silicone gel/sheets and taping protocols.

Is lipoabdominoplasty safe?

Short answer: It’s widely used; safety depends on careful technique and your health.

Expanded: Combining liposuction with a tummy tuck can refine your waist and flanks. Surgeons follow protocols to protect blood supply and skin integrity. Your candidacy is individualized.

• CDC – Traveler Health: Thailand
• UK Government – Foreign Travel Advice: Thailand
• WHO – Patient Safety
• Thai Ministry of Public Health

Prices are indicative for planning only and vary by case, technique, surgeon, and facility. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions before and after surgery.